Parent Education

Parents, Friends, Family, and Neighbors: The First Educators

Building School Readiness Begins at Home

In Webb County, 58 % of the area is considered a childcare desert—meaning there are either no licensed providers or so few that there are three times as many children as available slots. At the same time, a national report found that most parents rely on friends, family, and neighbors (FFN) for child care. (EdSurge, 2025)

As an anchor institution, Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) champions local solutions that strengthen families. The Office of Global & Community Engagement (GCE), TAMIU, serves as a social catalyst, empowering parents and FFN caregivers—the child’s first and most important educators—with knowledge, skills, and confidence to ensure every child in Laredo is ready for school.

Parents and child